Jazz & Pop Reviews : Barbara McNair Hosts New Voices of ’92

Barbara McNair is sharing the stage at the Cinegrill this week with a group of performers called the New Voices of ’92.

The effort to associate the presentation with Broadway’s classic “New Faces� shows of the past was obvious. But Tuesday’s opening night seemed far more like a showcase than a well-crafted cabaret event.

All four New Voices--singers Tom Burns, Hillary Turk, J’ai and Gustavo Rex--were bright, enthusiastic and not without talent. Burns brought a touch of whimsy to his numbers; Turk had the larger-than-life sound of a Broadway belter; J’ai sang the blues with an effective blend of sensuality and humor; and Rex was romantic in three languages.

None of the performers, however, indicated a real ability to grab the spotlight and hold it. And their choice of material--including a weak medley sung as a quartet--was surprisingly insubstantial for singers eager to make a big impression.

McNair, professional that she is, opened her part of program with a powerful Ellington medley, added the satirical “Nina, From Argentina� and concluded with the only wearisome number in her program, the inevitable “I’m Still Here.�

Well aware of the relatively small confines of the Cinegrill, McNair shaped her interpretations precisely--never too intimate, never overpowering the room. She was especially appealing with an exquisite reading of “In a Sentimental Mood,� and revealed a solid capacity to swing in an upbeat romp through “Take the ‘A’ Train.�

The four New Voices would do well to carefully observe McNair’s smoothly authoritative mastery of all the aspects of the craft of performance. The engagement continues through Saturday.